Fernando Lovo

Fernando Lovo its seventh Director of Athletics, succeeding Rick George following unanimous approval by the CU Board of Regents. Lovo arrived from the University of New Mexico, where he led the Lobos to eight Mountain West titles and a top Group of 5 finish in the Learfield Director’s Cup. During his tenure, New Mexico also achieved record academic success, including 231 Scholar-Athletes and 273 All-Academic Team selections. He also guided the department to a record revenue year, increasing the operating budget by 17.6% and setting highs in ticket sales, fundraising, and other key areas.

Lovo made an immediate impact with key coaching hires, including football coach Jason Eck, who led the team to a 9–3 season, and basketball coach Eric Olen, who opened with a strong start. Prior to New Mexico, he held senior leadership roles at the University of Texas, overseeing major operations and nearly $500 million in capital projects. His career also includes experience with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ohio State, Houston, and Florida, where he was part of two national championship teams.

A New Orleans native raised in Miami, Lovo earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Florida. He is widely recognized for his focus on student-athlete success, operational excellence, and innovation during a rapidly evolving era in college athletics. Lovo and his wife, Jordan, have two children, Liam and Layla.